Tiltloader for transferring cargo

ABSTRACT

A device and method for moving tilt frame and transfer bed portions of a cargo transfer system are disclosed. In one embodiment, the invention may include a table and a pin secured to the transfer bed. The table may pivot on a horizontal axis allowing the transfer bed to be placed in a horizontal orientation during inclination of the tilt frame. The table may also pivot on a vertical axis so that the transfer bed may swing side-to-side, and may also pivot on a z-axis enabling the transfer bed to roll side-to-side relative to the table. An adjustable carriage with independently movable stabilizer legs may be used to level the transfer bed on uneven ground. The tilt frame may also include an extendable boom and a retractable roller system to facilitate loading and unloading of material such as flat rack platforms and pallets.

PRIORITY CLAIM

As to common subject matter, this application claims priority from U.S.Ser. No. 11/470,374 filed Sep. 6, 2006, titled: “Meshing Wheel ForTransferring Cargo”.

COLOR DRAWING STATEMENT

Pursuant to 37 CFR §1.84(a)(2)(iii), the file of this patent contains atleast one drawing executed in color. Copies of this patent with colordrawings will be provided by the Patent and Trademark Office uponrequest and payment of the necessary fee.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to an apparatus and method fortransferring cargo, including transferring cargo between an aircraft anda ground transportation vehicle. The invention allows for thetransferring of cargo in a number of scenarios and environments,including accounting for spatial restraints imposed by the structure ofaft-loading aircraft.

Cargo transferring systems are known for transferring aircraft cargo,such as containers, equipment and vehicles, to and from groundtransportation vehicles, such as trucks and trailers. Two suchtransferring systems are available from Stewart & Stevenson of Sealy,Texas, and are known as the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV)Loading Handling System and the Medium Tactical Truck Demonstrator(MTTD). These transferring systems employ L-arm hoist assemblies and/oroverhead booms which require a substantial amount of overhead clearance,rendering them unsuitable for transferring aircraft cargo given theconfining spatial envelope caused by the presence of the aircraft, andthe elevated aircraft loading ramp. Such cargo transferring systems mayalso employ beds which may not load evenly with the aircraft loadingramp.

Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide a transferringapparatus and method for quickly and efficiently transferring aircraftcargo within the spatial constraints caused by the presence of theaircraft and/or an elevated aircraft loading ramp.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention may be used to transfer cargo, includingtransferring cargo between an aft-loading aircraft and a groundtransportation vehicle, while operating within the spatial envelope ofthe aircraft and an elevated loading ramp. This is generallyaccomplished by securing and moving the cargo in a manner that allowsfor generally horizontal movement while the cargo is within the spatialenvelope.

A preferred embodiment of the invention may include a table and a pinfor moving a tilt frame and a transfer bed of a cargo transfer system.The table may be mounted on a horizontal axis and secured to the tiltframe. The table may have a first surface permitting coaxial rotation ofan opposing second surface, where the opposing second surface is locatedon the transfer bed. The pin may extend from the table and may besecured to the transfer bed such that the first surface opposes thesecond surface. The table and the opposing second surface may cooperateto enable the transfer bed to be oriented generally parallel to theground during inclination of the tilt frame.

In one preferred embodiment, a device is provided for moving a tiltframe in relation to a transfer bed. The device includes a table mountedon a horizontal axis configured to be secured to the tilt frame. Thetable may have a first surface configured to permit coaxial rotation ofan opposing second surface located on the transfer bed. A pin (such as aspherical bearing) may extend from the table. The pin may be configuredto be secured to the opposing second surface of the transfer bed. Thetable and the opposing second surface may be cooperatively engaged bythe pin to enable the transfer bed to be oriented generally parallel tothe ground during inclination of the tilt frame. The pin preferablyallows the transfer bed to roll side-to-side relative to the table,while also allowing the table and the opposing second surface tocooperate to allow the transfer bed to rotate about a vertical axiscoincident with the pin. The pin may be threaded and may include athreaded fastener configured to mate with the pin for rotatably securingthe first and opposing second surfaces.

A mounting plate may be used to secure the device to the tilt frameusing one or more risers extending from the mounting plate and one ormore table supports extending down from the table, to provide a verticalseparation between the table and the mounting plate, therebyfacilitating clearance between the transfer bed and tilt frame.

A carriage or trolley may be provided, movable along the tilt frame, andthe table may be secured to the trolley. The trolley may bechain-driven, for example.

The table may include a first meshing surface configured to be securedto a second meshing surface on the transfer bed. The table may also haveone or more supports configured to pivotally turn on a horizontal axisbetween the mounting plate and the table, permitting the transfer bed tobe oriented generally parallel to the ground during inclination of thetilt frame. The first and second meshing surfaces may be permitted toengage, to allow the transfer bed to rotate about a vertical axiscoincident with the pin. The pin, such as a spherical bearing, may alsobe used to secure the first meshing surface to the second meshingsurface. A horizontal axis may be formed by using one or more risersextending from the mounting plate and the one or more supports toprovide a vertical separation between the table and the mounting plate,thereby facilitating clearance between the transfer bed and tilt frame.

In another embodiment of the invention, a method is employed for movinga tilt frame supported by a vehicle chassis in relation to a transferbed pivotally connected to the tilt frame. The method may include thestep of mounting a table for pivotable movement about a horizontal axis.The table may be secured to the tilt frame. The table may have a firstsurface configured to permit coaxial rotation of an opposing secondsurface on the transfer bed. The table is pivotable on the horizontalaxis such that the transfer bed may be oriented generally parallel tothe ground during inclination of the tilt frame. A pin may extend fromthe table. The pin may be configured to be secured to the transfer bedsuch that the first surface opposes the second surface. Preferably, thetable and the second surface cooperate to allow the transfer bed torotate about a vertical axis coincident with the pin. A mounting platemay be provided, and configured for securing the device to the tiltframe. The horizontal axis may be formed using one or more risersextending from the mounting plate and one or more table supportsextending down from the table, to provide a vertical separation betweenthe table and the mounting plate, thereby facilitating clearance betweenthe transfer bed and tilt frame. Preferably, the pin also allows thetransfer bed to roll side-to-side relative to the table. A trolley maybe provided which is movable along the tilt frame; the table may besecured to the trolley.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention, a loading andunloading device is provided for transferring cargo between a vehiclehaving a chassis and a cab and a loading ramp of varying height. Thedevice may include a tilt frame pivotally engaged to the vehiclechassis. The tilt frame may have a first end near the cab of the vehicleand a second end distal from the cab. The transfer bed may have a firstend movable along an upper surface of the tilt frame. A table may beprovided, and mounted on a horizontal axis configured to be secured tothe tilt frame. The table may have a first surface configured to permitcoaxial rotation of an opposing second surface located on the transferbed. A pin, such as a spherical bearing, may extend from the table, orotherwise connect the transfer bed and the tilt frame. The pin may beconfigured to be secured to the opposing second surface of the transferbed. An adjustable height carriage configured to support a second end ofthe transfer bed may also be provided. Using this device, the transferbed may be leveled at varying heights by varying at least one of: theheight of the carriage; and the height of the first end of the transferbed by moving it along the tilt frame. The table and the opposing secondsurface cooperate to enable the transfer bed to be oriented generallyparallel to the ground during inclination of the tilt frame. Thecarriage may be supported by one or more independently-moveable rearstabilizer legs enabling the transfer bed to be leveled over unevenground. The rear stabilizer legs may be nestable or foldable under anend of the transfer bed. The tilt frame may also include an extendableboom, which may terminate in a hook fork useable for loading andunloading flat rack platforms.

The tilt frame may also include a retractable roller system tofacilitate loading and unloading. When engaged, the retractable rollersystem may include rollers extending above a deck of the tilt frame tofacilitate roll-loading of apparatus such as cargo pallets on to thedeck. After loading, the rollers may be retracted from a level of thedeck, such as by using air pressure, spring-loading or other means.

Other systems, methods, features, and advantages of the presentinvention will be apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art uponexamination of the following drawings and detailed description. It isintended that all such additional systems, methods, features, andadvantages be included within this description, be within the scope ofthe present invention, and be protected by the accompanying claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features which are characteristic of the invention are setforth in the appended claims. The invention itself, however, togetherwith further objects and attendant advantages thereof, can be betterunderstood by reference to the following description taken in connectionwith the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an aircraft having an aft-loading ramp,and a preferred embodiment of the transferring system of the presentinvention;

FIG. 2 is a side view of the transferring system and the aft-loadingaircraft of FIG. 1, including the tilt frame and transfer bed portionsof the transferring system;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the tilt frame and transfer bed portionsof the transferring system of FIGS. 1 and 2;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the transferring system illustrating the lateralflexibility associated with the use of a tilt frame trolley having ameshing wheel (partially hidden) which connects to the transfer bed;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a preferred Rapid Attach™ containerinterface (RACI) device of the transferring system of the presentinvention;

FIG. 6A is a first perspective view of the RACI of FIG. 5 showing theopen RACI positioned over one side of the corner fitting of a shippingcontainer;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of another side of the corner fitting of ashipping container;

FIG. 6C is a second perspective view of the RACI of FIG. 5 showing theopen RACI over the corner fitting of the shipping container;

FIG. 7A is a third perspective view of the RACI of FIG. 5 showing theclosed RACI over the corner fitting of the shipping container;

FIG. 7B is a fourth perspective view of the RACI of FIG. 5 showing theclosed RACI over the corner fitting of the shipping container;

FIG. 8 is a side view of the closed RACI of FIG. 5, illustrating theattachment of a bracket and a strap;

FIG. 9 is a first perspective view of the RACI of FIG. 5, shown duringthe loading of the shipping container onto the transfer bed of FIGS.1-4;

FIG. 10 is a second perspective view of the RACI of FIG. 5, shown duringthe loading of the shipping container onto the transfer bed of FIGS.1-4;

FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of the meshing wheel of FIG. 4;

FIG. 12 is a top perspective view of the meshing wheel on the trolley ofFIG. 4;

FIG. 13A is an exploded bottom perspective view of the meshing wheel ofFIGS. 11 and 12 illustrating the connection to the transfer bed of FIG.3;

FIG. 13B is a top perspective view of the meshing wheel of FIGS. 11 and12 illustrating the connection to the transfer bed of FIG. 3;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the tilt frame and trolley of FIG. 12in a first position on the tilt frame of FIGS. 1-4;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the tilt frame and trolley of FIG. 12in a second position on the tile frame of FIGS. 1-4;

FIGS. 16A and 16B are bottom perspective views of a retractable pintledevice associated with the transfer bed of FIGS. 1-4;

FIGS. 17A-17C are sequential side views illustrating how cargo may betransferred from an aircraft, as shown in FIG. 2, to the chassis of avehicle;

FIGS. 18A-18D are sequential side views illustrating how cargo may betransferred from the ground to the transfer bed of FIGS. 3 and 4; and

FIG. 19 is a side and front perspective view of an alternativeembodiment of the tilt loader of the present invention showing a rearend of the tile frame and the transfer bed located at a rear portion ofthe tile frame;

FIG. 20 is a side and rear perspective of the transfer bed advanced toits farthest, front-most position along the tilt frame, according to theembodiment of FIG. 19;

FIG. 20A is a side perspective view, and FIG. 20B is a side and rearperspective view, taken along reference line 20A-20A of FIG. 20, atalternating times as the carriage moves up the transfer bed;

FIG. 20C is a partial top and front perspective view of one rollersystem embodiment useable with the present invention;

FIGS. 20D and 20E show the air-loaded retractable roller capability ofthe roller system shown in FIG. 20C;

FIG. 20F is a partial rear perspective view of an embodiment of theupper rear deck of the transfer bed;

FIG. 21 is an enlarged top and side perspective view of a front end ofthe transfer bed showing an extendable boom, according to the embodimentof FIG. 19;

FIG. 21A is a partial side, cross-sectional view of an adjustable boomattached to the trolley which travels front-to-rear on the transfer bed;

FIG. 21B is a partial front perspective view of the gear box for drivingthe adjustable boom shown in FIG. 21A;

FIGS. 21C-D are partial perspective views showing the Rapid Attach™brackets;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing a front and bottom portion of thetransfer bed, and its interconnection to the underlying tilt frame,according to the FIG. 19 embodiment;

FIG. 23 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of FIG. 22 showingthe components interconnecting the tilt frame and the transfer bed,prior to actual connection, according to the FIG. 19 embodiment;

FIG. 24 is an enlarged perspective view, similar to FIG. 23, showing theinterconnection between the tilt frame and the transfer bed, accordingto the FIG. 19 embodiment;

FIGS. 24A-D are partial front perspective views showing the attachmentand interaction between one embodiment of the pin (a spherical bearing)joining the tilt frame and transfer bed, enabling the tilt frame andtransfer bed to move in the manner shown;

FIG. 25 is an enlarged, side perspective view of a rear portion of thetransfer bed, showing one of the independently movable, rear stabilizerlegs supporting the transfer bed, according to the FIG. 19 embodiment;and

FIGS. 26A-26B are enlarged perspective views of an embodiment of therear stabilizer leg, in retracted (FIG. 26A) and extended (FIG. 26B)positions;

FIGS. 26C is a side view along reference line 26C-26C of FIG. 26B;

FIGS. 27A-27F are various partial, front perspective views showingpreferred embodiments of the trolley/adjustable boom roller or drivesystem;

FIG. 28 is a partial, front perspective view of the trolley/adjustableboom roller/travel system configurations;

FIG. 29 is a partial, front section view of the trolley/adjustable boomroller/travel system configurations.

The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasisinstead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of thepresent invention. In the drawings, like reference numerals designatecorresponding parts throughout the several views.

DEFINITION OF CLAIM TERMS

The following terms are used in the claims of the patent as filed andare intended to have their broadest meaning consistent with therequirements of law. Where alternative meanings are possible, thebroadest meaning is intended. All words used in the claims are intendedto be used in the normal, customary usage of grammar and the Englishlanguage.

In the claims, the “tilt frame” is any structure capable of supportingcargo loaded on a transfer bed, and that pivots on a vehicle chassis.

In the claims, “transfer bed” is any structure capable of heightadjustment that supports cargo being transferred from a loading ramp ordock, and that may at least partially overlie and be supported by a tiltframe.

In the claims, “meshing surface” refers any surface allowing interactiveengagement between a tilt frame and a transfer bed such that thetransfer bed may be disposed in a horizontal position generally parallelto the ground even as the tilt frame is inclined relative to the ground.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Set forth below is a description of what are believed to be thepreferred embodiments and/or best examples of the invention claimed.Future and present alternatives and modifications to the preferredembodiments are contemplated. Any alternatives or modifications whichmake insubstantial changes in function, in purpose, in structure, or inresult are intended to be covered by the claims of this patent.

The present invention generally relates to an apparatus and method fortransferring cargo. The invention allows for the transfer of cargo in anumber of scenarios and environments. Applications for the inventioninclude transferring cargo between an aircraft and a groundtransportation vehicle, and from the ground to the ground transportationvehicle. The invention provides for accomplishing such tasks within thespatial constraints imposed by military aircraft. For example,central-body loading military aircraft, such as the C-17 and C-130,provide problematic spatial constraints associated with an aft-loadingramp beneath the tail portion of the aircraft. The present inventionaddresses the problems associated with the prior art L-arm hoistassemblies and/or overhead booms which have been found to undesirablyconflict with the spatial constraints associated with aircraft such asthe C-17 and C-130.

Preferred embodiments of the present invention are provided below inwhich the cargo is transferred to and from the aircraft in a morehorizontal manner. These new methods and systems for transferring cargomay use a number of new devices and steps, such as but not limited to:(1) a new device and method for engaging the cargo (see the RACIdescription and FIGS. 5-10); (2) a new device and method fortransferring the cargo between the aircraft and ground transportationvehicle, including a tilt frame and retractable transfer bed; (3) a newdevice and method for leveling the transfer bed; and (4) a new deviceand method for engaging and moving the transfer bed in relationship tothe chassis of the ground transportation vehicle.

In brief, cargo 28 (FIG. 1) may be loaded onto vehicle chassis 18 a fromany location using the retractable deck combination formed by tilt frame24 and transfer bed 26. Cargo 28, which may take the form of a shippingcontainer 28 a (FIG. 2), may be engaged using a Rapid Attach™ containerinterface (RACI) mechanism 50 (FIG. 5). RACI 50 and cargo 28 a may bepulled onto transfer bed 26 via straps 70 (FIGS. 8-10) and transfer bedtrolley 26 b (FIG. 3). Transfer bed 26, with cargo 28 a, may be pulledonto tilt frame 24 using meshing wheel 32 (FIGS. 4, 11-13B) thatpivotally attaches transfer bed 26 to tilt frame 24. Meshing wheel 32may be mounted on tilt frame trolley 24 a (FIGS. 2 and 4) and secured toa forward portion of transfer bed 26 (as shown in FIG. 4). Tilt frametrolley 24 a and meshing wheel 32 may then travel forward and/or upwardon an upper surface 24 k (FIG. 3) of tilt frame 24 until cargo container28 a rests on vehicle chassis 18 a. Cargo 28 may also be transferredbetween vehicle 18 and aircraft loading ramp 10 b (FIG. 2) using theretractable deck combination formed by tilt frame 24 and transfer bed26, where transfer bed 26 is adjustable to the height of loading ramp 10b.

Provided below is a more detailed description of the cargo transfersystem, including subsections providing more detailed descriptions ofRACI 50, meshing wheel 32, and various methods of operating the cargotransfer system. This description and the references to “preferred” and“new” devices and steps are intended to provide context and informationassociated with the cargo transfer system, without limiting the claimswhich are set forth separately after this detailed description.

Cargo Transfer System

Referring initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, an aircraft 10 and portions oftransferring system 20 are shown. FIG. 1 shows an aircraft 10 having aloading ramp 10 b, in this case an aft-loading ramp, vehicle 18, andportions of the transferring system 20, including tilt frame 24 andtransfer bed 26. In FIG. 1, cargo 28 is shown moving in the directionindicated by arrow 14 from the cargo bay 10 a of aircraft 10 to transferbed 26.

FIG. 2 shows a side view of aircraft 10 on the ground 12 and shows tiltframe 24 and transfer bed 26 in a typical configuration for the transferof cargo 28 between aircraft 10 and vehicle chassis 18 a. In someembodiments, transferring system 20 includes vehicle chassis 18 a, tiltframe 24, and transfer bed 26. In additional embodiments, transferringsystem 20 includes methods for transferring cargo 28 from aircraft 10,to transfer bed 26, and then onto vehicle chassis 18 a.

Referring to FIG. 2, loading ramp 101) is hinged to aircraft 10 at hingepoint 10 c. Loading ramp 10 b may be used to access cargo bay 10 a ofaircraft 10. The floor (not shown) of cargo bay 10 a may beapproximately 32 inches above ground 12 in the case of a C-130 aircraft,and approximately 62 inches above ground 12 in the case of a C-17aircraft, so it is preferable to provide a loading device which canaccommodate a loading ramp having heights of at least this variance.Cargo bay 10 a may include “roll on/roll off” rollers (not shown butknown to those having ordinary skill in the art) for efficient handlingof cargo pallets. Loading ramp 10 b may be hydraulically operated andmay also include features for efficiently transferring cargo, such asthe “roll on/roll off” rollers.

The distance between loading ramp 10 b and the top of cargo bay 10 apresents spatial impediments to the efficient loading and unloading ofaircraft 10. In addition, the distance between ground 12 and the tailportion of aircraft 10 presents spatial impediments to the efficientloading and unloading of aircraft 10. For example, in the case of aC-130 aircraft, unloading equipment with a winch and hook is problematicbecause there is only about 102 inches of usable distance between theend of ramp 10 b and the top of aircraft bay 10 a when ramp 10 b islevel with the floor of cargo bay 10 a (allowing 6 inches of clearanceat the top of the bay 10 a). Also, in the case of a C-130 aircraft, theusable width of the bay is approximately 105 inches (allowing 6 incheson each side and allowing for the permanently installed rail system (notshown) in the bay 10 b). In the case of a C-17 aircraft, there is onlyabout 142 inches of usable distance between the end of ramp 10 b and thetop of aircraft bay 10 a when ramp 10 b is level with the floor of cargobay 10 a (allowing 6 inches of ceiling clearance). Also, in the case ofa C-17 aircraft, the usable width of the bay is approximately 196 inches(allowing 6 inches of wall clearance). Although the dimensionalimpediments are described herein in regard to aircraft 10, similardimensional impediments exist in regard to transporting cargo to andfrom other transporting crafts, such as, but not limited to, otheraircraft, ships, and trucks.

Ideally, cargo 28 may be transferred between aircraft 10 and vehiclechassis 18 a where neither the cargo nor the transferring system exceeda spatial envelope defined by: (a) a ceiling at the height of thetransom above ramp lob; (b) a width slightly less than the width of ramplob, for example, in the case of a C-130, a width of 105 inches which isslightly less than the width of the ramp on a C-130, with the widthco-centered with ramp lob; and (c) a length sufficient to allowclearance, and a margin for error, to prevent cargo 28 and equipment fortransferring the cargo, from striking aircraft 10. For example, in thecase of a C-130, the length sufficient to allow clearance is 30 feetfrom hinge point 10 c to the rear of aircraft 10. Ideally, both cargo 28and the equipment used to transfer cargo 28 remain within the spatialenvelope as cargo 28 is transferred between aircraft 10 and vehiclechassis 18 a.

Transferring system 20 may be used to efficiently load and unload cargo28 to and from aircraft 10 and other cargo transports while remainingwithin the spatial envelope. Vehicle chassis 18 a may be a variety ofvehicle chasses, such as virtually any Class 7 or Class 8 truck chassis,such as but not limited to the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicle (FMTV)chassis. Vehicle chassis 18 a may be mounted on any vehicle 18 capableof sustaining the weight of cargo 28 and transferring system 20.

As shown in FIG. 2, tilt frame 24 may be attached at a generally forwardportion to chassis 18 a via cylinder 30 between attachment point 30 aand attachment point 30 b. Cylinder 30 may raise and lower tilt frame 24such that tilt frame 24 pivots near the back of vehicle chassis 18 a. Inaddition to using a cylinder 30, tilt frame 24 may be attached tovehicle chassis 18 a in a variety of manners, such as but not limitedto, those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,779,431; 6,817,825; and6,520,736, which are each fully incorporated herein by reference.

Tilt frame 24 may be attached to transfer bed 26 in a manner that allowsthe generally forward portion of transfer bed 26 to travel along theupper surface 24 k of tilt frame 24. One manner of allowing such travelis by using a tilt frame trolley 24 a and an associated meshing wheel 32(FIG. 11) as described in greater detail below with regard to FIGS. 4and 11-15.

Again referring to FIG. 2, transfer bed 26 may include adjustablecarriage 34. Adjustable carriage 34 may include rear wheels 34 a,support struts 34 b, and support posts 34 c. The height of adjustablecarriage 34 may be adjusted through a number of adjustable mechanisms,such as but not limited to, a hydraulic mechanism that changes thedistance between the upper surface 26 n (see FIG. 3) of transfer bed 26and rear wheels 34 a. The adjustable mechanism permits cargo 28 transferto/from several different heights of loading platforms, not limited tovarious aircraft loading ramps 10 b. If desirable, the wheels 34 a ondifferent sides of the transfer bed 26 may act independently for thepurpose of leveling the transfer bed 26 with ramps 10 b about the rollaxis 26 s (see FIG. 3). For example, the independent adjustmentmechanisms may be used to level the upper surface 26 n with the ramp 10b on ground 12, even if the ground 12 is uneven.

Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4, vehicle chassis 18 a, tilt frame 24, andtransfer bed 26 are shown. Tilt frame 24 allows transfer bed 26 andcargo 28 to be transferred to and from vehicle chassis 18 a withoutexceeding the spatial envelope. Tilt frame 24 may include tilt frametrolley 24 a (also see FIGS. 14-15) that may travel on tilt frame tracks24 b. Trolley 24 a may be moved on tracks 24 b using tilt frame motor 24d, chain 24 e, first gear 24 f, and second gear 24 g. Meshing wheel 32(also see FIGS. 11-15) may be secured to trolley 24 a using conventionalfasteners, such as bolts. Motor 24 d provides a motive force which iscommunicated to trolley 24 a via chain 24 e, first gear 24 f and secondgear 24 g. As trolley 24 a travels on the upper surface 24 k of tiltframe 24, the transfer bed 26, to which trolley 24 a is secured, movesonto, or off of, tilt frame 24.

Transfer bed 26 allows cargo 28 to be transferred to and from aircraft10 without exceeding the spatial envelope, and allows for cargo 28 to betransferred at the same level as loading ramp lob. Transfer bed 26 mayinclude transfer bed trolley 26 b that may travel on transfer bed tracks26 c. Trolley 26 b may be moved on tracks 26 c using transfer bed motor26 f, chain 26 h, third gear 26 k, and fourth gear 26 m. Motor 26 fprovides a motive force which is communicated to trolley 26 b via chain26 h, third gear 26 k, and fourth gear 26 m. When loaded, movement oftrolley 26 b towards tilt frame 24 results in movement of cargo 28toward tilt frame 24. Transfer bed end rollers 26 a allow for the smoothtransition of cargo between ground 12 and transfer bed 26. Transfer bed26 may also include imbedded retractable “roll on/roll off” rollers 26 rfor moving cargo 28 on the upper surface 26 n of transfer bed 26.Transfer bed imbedded rollers 26 r may also allow for the smoothtransition of cargo between ramp 10 b and transfer bed 26. Transfer bed26 may also include screw-down twist or tandem locks 26 t, as shown inFIG. 3, to interface with an ISO corner fitting, for securing cargo 28to the transfer bed 26.

In FIG. 3, it can be seen that adjustable carriage 34 may have a rearwheel 34 a on each end of axle 34 d. Although shown extended in FIGS. 2and 3, adjustable carriage may also be retracted under transfer bed 26when cargo 28 is being moved from ground 12 to transfer bed 26 (see FIG.10). Control panel 40 may provide controls for operating tilt framemotor 24 d, transfer bed motor 26 f, and adjustable carriage 34. Aremote wireless control (not shown) may also be used to operate thetransferring system 20.

Rapid Attach Device

FIGS. 5-10 show a preferred mechanism, Rapid Attach™ container interface(RACI) 50, for quickly connecting and disconnecting cargo 28 to the rearof transfer bed 26 so that cargo 28 may be moved, for example fromground 12 to transfer bed 26. In short, RACI 50 enables corner fittings28 b (FIG. 6A) of shipping container 28 a, or other cargo 28, to bequickly attached to transfer bed 26. Corner fittings 28 b may be asspecified by the American National Standards Institute/InternationalOrganization for Standardization (ANSI/ISO). Such fittings are availablefrom suppliers such as Tandemloc, Inc., of Havelock, N.C., and are knownto those having ordinary skill in the art.

RACI 50 may include a bracket 72 (FIG. 8) that provides an attachmentpoint for the use of straps 70 to load container 28 a onto transfer bed26. Straps 70 may be made of nylon (e.g., 3-ply or 4-ply) or anotherstrong, yet flexible, material. Due to its design and construction, ithas been found that RACI 50 may be attached and locked to the shippingcontainer in less than ten seconds, and each mechanism of a pair mayweigh only about 35-40 pounds.

FIG. 5 shows RACI 50 in an open position. RACI 50 may include firstplate 52, second plate 54, first bar 56, first sleeve 56 a, second bar58, second sleeve 58 a, RACI wheel 60, first pin 62, second pin 64,brace 66 and fitting insert 70. Fitting insert 70 and second pin 64 aredesigned to conform to the generally oval apertures of corner fitting 28b (see FIGS. 6A and 6B).

First plate 52 may include several apertures, including first aperture52 a, bracket aperture 52 b, an aperture in which first sleeve 56 a maybe affixed, an aperture in which second sleeve 58 a may be affixed, anaperture configured for supporting RACI wheel 60, and a pin aperture 52c. Pin aperture 52 c is located on an insert portion 52 d of plate 52.Pin aperture 52 c is configured to accept second pin 64 when RACI 50 isclosed.

First plate 52 may be constructed from a variety of materials, such asbut not limited to, high tensile steel such as ASTM A514B. First plate52 may be machined to include the features described herein. Flat platesmay be laser cut, while pins are cast or stock materials. First plate 52may be constructed from materials, and constructed in a manner, toprovide sufficient structure integrity to perform the operationsdescribed herein.

Second plate 54 may include carrying aperture 54 a, an aperture in whichfirst bar 56 may be affixed, an aperture in which second bar 58 may beaffixed, and an aperture in which second pin 64 may be affixed. Secondplate 54 may be constructed from similar materials, and in a similarmanner, as described above in regard to first plate 52.

First bar 56 may be attached to second plate 54 on a first end, whilethe second end is configured to adjustably slide within and/or throughfirst sleeve 56 a and first plate 54. Bar 56 may be formed from stockround materials, such as but not limited to ASTM A 108, C-1045cold-drawn bar, milled to shape as shown and described herein, andprovided with a chamfered machined end. Of course, for mass productionpurposes, tooling and steel casting of parts may be done. First bar 56may inserted through an aperture in second plate 54, and welded inplace, for example.

Using similar principles, second bar 58 may be attached to second plate54 on a first end, while the second end is configured to adjustablyslide within and/or through second sleeve 58 a and first plate 54.Second bar 58 may include a plurality of apertures configured to acceptfirst pin 62. Second bar 58 may be constructed from similar materials,and in a similar manner, as described above in regard to first bar 56.Second bar 58 may also be attached to second plate 54 in a mannersimilar to that described above for first bar 56.

First pin 62 may pass through second sleeve 58 a and the plurality ofapertures of second bar 58. First pin 62 may be configured to provide asecure fit in order to maximize the structural integrity of RACI 50 whenRACI is subject to the stresses associated with the operation of RACI 50as described below.

Brace 66, which may be cold drawn, may be configured to lie flushagainst shipping container 28 a during the operation of RACI 50, asdescribed below, in order to provide lateral stability. Brace 66 may beattached to first plate 52 by welding, for example. Brace 66 may be usedto keep RACI 50 from rotating vertically.

RACI wheel 60 (FIG. 5) may be configured, and attached to first plate52, in a manner that provides sufficient mechanical integrity to supportRACI 50, and cargo 28, in the operation of RACI 50 as described below.RACI wheel 60, which may be steamed and hardened bar stock, may be madeso that the bolt head is counter-sunk and flush with the edge andrecessed into the roller, so that it does not rub on the transfer bedtracks 26 c (FIG. 4) or other portions of the transfer system 20.

Second pin 64 is configured to allow an end portion to pass through afirst aperture 28 c (FIG. 6A) on corner fitting 28 b when RACI 50 isclosed. Insert portion 52 d is designed to pass through a secondaperture 28 d (FIG. 6B) on corner fitting 28 b when RACI 50 is closed.When the RACI 50 is closed on a corner fitting 28 b, second pin 64 mateswith insert portion 52 d of first plate 52 in the internal hollowportion of the corner fitting 28 b.

One preferred method of operating RACI 50 is now described in referenceto FIGS. 5-10. In one step, the RACI 50 is placed near corner fitting 28b of container 28 a. RACI 50 is placed near corner fitting 28 b in anopen position, such as the open position shown in FIGS. 5, 6A and 6C.Insert portion 52 d of first plate 52 is inserted into the secondaperture 28 d of corner fitting 28 b, with RACI wheel 60 oriented towardground 12, and second pin 64 in line with first aperture 28 e of cornerfitting 28 b, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6C.

In another step, RACI 50 is closed by applying a force on second plate54 towards cargo 28, as shown by arrows 68 in FIGS. 6A and 6B. The forcemay be applied to second plate 54 through carrying aperture 54 a and/orvia the exterior surface of second plate 54. The force applied to secondplate 54 results in first bar 56 and second bar 58 passing,respectively, through first sleeve 56 a and second sleeve 58 a, andresults in second plate 54 moving towards first plate 52. The force isapplied until an end portion 64 a of second pin 64 enters first aperture28 c of corner fitting 28 b and mates in aperture 52 c.

In another step, RACI 50 is locked in place. RACI 50 may be locked byplacing first pin 62 through second sleeve 58 a and one of the pluralityof apertures (not shown) of second bar 58 as shown in FIG. 7A. FIGS. 7Aand 7B show RACI 50 in a closed and locked position.

In another step, bracket 72 is attached to RACI 50 through bracketaperture 52 b as shown in FIG. 8. In another step, strap 70 is attachedto transfer bed trolley 26 b (FIGS. 3 and 4) and bracket 72. In anotherstep, cargo container 28 b is moved when transfer bed trolley 26 b pullson strap 70, resulting in a force being applied to bracket 72, and thento RACI 50, resulting in a force being applied to container cargo 28 b.

In another step, cargo container is pulled onto the upper surface 26 nof transfer bed 26. As shown in FIGS. 6C and 8, first plate 52 mayinclude a sloped surface 52 f to allow RACI 50 to easily pass to uppersurface 26 n after passing over rollers 26 a. As a pulling force isapplied to strap 70, sloped surface 52 f comes in contact with rollers26 a of transfer bed 26. Further pulling on straps 70 results in RACI 50traveling over roller 26 a and onto the upper surface 26 n of transferbed 26.

Meshing Wheel Device

FIGS. 11-15 show a preferred mechanism, a meshing wheel 32 and tiltframe trolley 24 a, for pivotally connecting transfer bed 26 to tiltframe 24, and moving transfer bed 26 in relationship to tilt frame 24.Trolley 24 a and meshing wheel 32 enable transfer bed 26 to be loweredfrom tilt frame 24 in a flexible manner that allows for the efficientloading of cargo 28 onto transfer bed 26 and chassis 18 a, whether cargo28 is on the ground 12 or on loading ramp 10 b.

Referring now to FIGS. 11 through 13B, meshing wheel 32 may includemounting plate 32 a, mounting apertures 32 b, mounting risers 32 c,arcing table 32 d, table supports 32 e, pin 32 f, pin nut 32 g, securingplates 32 h, and grease fittings 32 m. Mounting plate 32 a and apertures32 b may be used to secure meshing wheel 32 to tilt frame trolley 24 a(FIG. 12) using conventional fastening methods, such as but not limitedto nuts and bolts. For example, meshing wheel 32 may be mounted ontrolley 24 a in a variety of ways such as, but not limited to, placingfour (4) bolts, for example grade eight (8) bolts, through mountingapertures 32 b and trolley 24 a, and securing the bolts with compatiblenuts.

Mounting risers 32 c and table supports 32 e may be interlaced (shown inFIGS. 11 and 13A) and pivotally affixed with securing plates 32 h, inorder to create a rocking axle shown by dashed line 80 (FIG. 12),allowing in-line movement of arcing table 32 d (as shown by arrow 82) inrelation to mounting plate 32 a. Pin 32 f and pin nut 32 g may be usedto secure meshing wheel 32 to transfer bed 26 (FIG. 13B). Thus, transferbed 26 may be mounted on tilt frame trolley 24 a by passing pin 32 fthrough transfer bed 26 and placing pin nut 32 g on pin 32 f.

Arcing table 32 d includes meshing surface 32 k. Transfer bed includesmeshing surface 26 q (FIG. 13A). Meshing surfaces 32 k and 26 q allowthe transfer bed 26 to move laterally, as shown by arrow 84 in FIG. 4,in conjunction with the inline movement permitted by rocking axle 80.Grease fittings 32 m allow grease to be placed between the meshingsurfaces 32 k and 26 q.

Referring to FIG. 11, tilt frame trolley 24 a may include side plates 24c. Side plates 24 c may be configured to follow tilt frame trolleytracks 24 b (FIG. 3). Tilt frame trolley 24 a is also connected to chain24 e (FIG. 3) using a master link and/or a link bar 24 m or anyconvenient method for affixing the chain 24 e to the tilt frame trolley24 a in a manner that allows tilt frame trolley 24 a to be moved alongtracks 24 b using motor 24 d (FIGS. 3 and 4). Thus, a first end 26 d oftransfer bed 26 may be moved on tracks 24 b between the ends of tiltframe 24 using motor 24 d.

The transfer system 20 may also include a quick detach system forrapidly disengaging the transfer bed 26 from the vehicle chassis 18 a,such as by using a quick-disconnect, pull-pin (not shown).

The arrangement described herein allows transfer bed 26 to pivot in atleast two manners. The first manner in which transfer bed 26 may pivotis inline with chassis 18 a as arcing table 32 d pivots in line withchassis 18 a and mounting plate 32 a as transfer bed 26 is raised orlowered on the upper surface 24 k of tilting frame 24, i.e., transferbed 26 may pivot upon the rocking axle shown by dashed line 80 (FIG.12). The second manner in which transfer bed 26 may pivot is thattransfer bed 26 may pivot in the lateral directions indicated by arrow84 in FIG. 4, i.e., transfer bed 26 may pivot upon an axis defined bypin 32 f.

FIGS. 14 and 15 show the movement of tilt frame trolley 24 a on tiltframe 24. In FIG. 14, trolley 24 a is located near a distal end (fromthe cab of vehicle 18) of tilt frame 24. In FIG. 15, trolley is locatedcloser to the cab of vehicle 18. Trolley 24 a moves from the positionshown in FIG. 14 to, and from, the position shown in FIG. 15, throughthe movement of chain 24 e about first gear 24 f (FIG. 3) and secondgear 24 g (FIGS. 4, 14 and 15). As chain 24 e moves, trolley 24 a movesalong tracks 24 b.

Pintle Device

FIGS. 16A and 16B show a preferred mechanism, a pintle device 90, fortowing a trailer. Pintle device 90 may be retractable as shown by arrow98. Pintle device 90 may be retractable, at least in part, to minimizeinterference while transfer bed 26 is being lowered from tilt frame 24and while transfer bed 26 is positioned for transferring cargo 28, suchas shown in FIG. 18A.

Pintle device 90 may include hook 92, plate 94, and hinged support 96.Hinged support 96 allows pintle device 90 to be folded into transfer bed26 such that hinged support 96 is flush with the bottom surface oftransfer bed 26, and held in place with a removable pin. It may also beconvenient to locate the pintle device 90 so that it is integrated intothe rear stabilizers, and so that it is both retractable andtelescoping.

System Operation

Referring now to FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C, one preferred method ofpracticing the invention is described in sequential views. FIG. 17Ashows cargo 28 on transfer bed 26. In FIG. 17A, transfer bed 26 ishorizontal as it might be after receiving cargo 28 from loading ramp 10b (FIGS. 1 and 2) where transfer bed 26 is level with loading ramp 10 b.FIG. 17B shows transfer bed 26 with cargo 28 being moved from a positionlevel with loading ramp 10 b to a position on tilt frame 24 and chassis18 a. FIG. 17C shows cargo 28, transfer bed, and tilt frame 24 onchassis 18 a.

In operation, vehicle 18 (FIG. 1), equipped with transferring system 20,may approach the rear of aircraft 10. Loading ramp 10 b may be loweredto access cargo 28 in cargo bay 10 a (FIG. 2). Vehicle 18 may stop at adistance from loading ramp 10 b such that space is allowed for transferbed 26 to extend between tilt frame 24 and loading ramp lob.

Cargo 28 may be moved onto transfer bed 26 in a number of manners. Inthe case where cargo 28 is a vehicle, the vehicle may be driven on totransfer bed 26. In the case where cargo is a container 28 a, container28 a may be pushed on imbedded rollers, including transfer bed imbeddedrollers 26 r, from cargo bay 10 a to the upper surface 26 n of transferbed 26. Containers 28 a may also be moved using RACI 50 and transfer bedtrolley 26 b. In FIG. 17A, cargo 28 is shown secured using RACI 50attached to trolley 26 b. Cargo may also be secured using ISO cornerfitting twist locks 26 t (FIG. 3). Motor 26 f may be used to pull cargo28 through trolley 26 b, strap 70, and RACI 50. In FIG. 17A, tilt frametrolley 24 a is shown at the distal end of tilt frame 24, while cylinder30 is extended causing tilt frame 24 to pivot on chassis 18 a.

FIG. 17B shows transfer bed 26 and cargo 28 being pulled onto tilt frame24. As tilt frame motor 24 d pulls tilt frame trolley 24 a toward theproximate end of tilt frame 24, meshing wheel 32 pivots, in-line andlaterally as required by the circumstances, in order to align transferbed 26 with tilt frame 24. As transfer bed 26 moves toward the proximateend of tilt frame 24, adjustable carriage 34 adjusts and eventuallyretracts as shown in FIG. 17C.

FIG. 17C shows tilt frame 24 and transfer bed 26 lying horizontally onchassis 18 a. Adjustable carriage 34 has collapsed such that rear wheels34 a are raised in order to avoid interference with the movement ofvehicle 18. Cylinder 30 has also retracted as tilt frame 24 moved fromthe pivoted position shown in FIG. 17B to the horizontal position shownin FIG. 17C.

In one preferred embodiment, the invention provides a device fortransporting cargo 28 between an aircraft 10 and a land-based vehicle 18having a vehicle chassis 18 a. The invention may include a pivoting tiltframe 24 supported by vehicle chassis 18 a and transfer bed 26. Transferbed 26 is pivotally connected at a first end 26 d, to the tilt frame 24and has a distal end 26 u in engaged communication with loading ramp1013 of aircraft 10. This permits cargo 28 from aircraft 10 to bereceived by the transfer bed 26, and also permits cargo 28 to betransported from transfer bed 26 into the loading compartment ofaircraft 10. In the preferred embodiment shown, the transfer bed 26 hasan upper surface 26 n on which cargo 28 rests, and the upper surface 26n of transfer bed 26 is capable of selective height adjustment relativeto the ground 12. Selective height adjustment may be provided byadjustable carriage 34, as described above.

Referring now to FIGS. 18A, 18B, 18C and 18D, another preferred methodof practicing the invention is described in sequential views. FIG. 18Ashows cargo 28 on the ground 12 to the rear of the transfer system 20with the RACI 50 attached to the cargo 28. In FIG. 18A, transfer bed 26is angled as it might in anticipation of receiving cargo 28 located onthe ground 12. FIG. 18B shows cargo 28 being moved onto the transfer bed26. FIG. 18C shows the cargo 28 partially on the transfer bed 26. FIG.18D shows the cargo 28 on the transfer bed 26.

It should by now be appreciated that various alternative mechanismsand/or modifications to the above-referenced designs may be made whilestill keeping within the principles of the various inventions describedhere, examples of which will now be discussed. Durable, flip-away guiderollers (not shown) may be used to facilitate guiding the load onto thecargo bed. Lanyards (small metal cables) may be used on pins to retainthe pins. Storage boxes may be added as needed. Because the loadingdevice may be used in exigent circumstances, it may be desirable toconfigure tilt frame 24 and/or transfer bed 26 so that they may bequickly jettisoned if necessary, such as by employing quick-detach pinsand/or quick-disconnect hoses. Chains, such as chain 24 e and chain 26h, may be provided with a self-cleaning wiper system (not shown). Aperforated deck may be employed to limit weight. Lighting may beincorporated into the bed, using protective pockets for example. One ormore sets of controls may be located not just in the vehicle cab butalso, for example, just behind the tilt pivot point, on each side of theunit (preferably integrated into the bed and protected).

Referring now to FIGS. 19-24D, an alternative embodiment of the presentinvention is shown, which provides a different connection between tiltframe 24 and transfer bed 26, enabling enhanced maneuverability betweenthose units. More specifically, the use of spherical bearing 200, whichmay be used to connect a portion of the tilt frame, such as front beam233 of the tilt frame deck weldment with spherical bearing base 220 ofthe transfer bed, provides transfer bed 26 with the ability to rotateabout this pivot through 3 degrees of freedom: through a vertical “X”axis, to allow the transfer bed to swing left to right (a movementenabled by the above-described design); through a horizontal “Y” axis toallow the transfer bed to tilt up and down (a movement enabled by theabove-described design); and through a perpendicular “Z” axis to allowthe transfer bed to roll from side-to-side (a movement not enabled bythe above-described design).

Referring to FIGS. 23-24D, base 220 may be slidably attached to rails240 on tilt frame 24. Spherical bearing 200 may include vertical pin204, bearing plate 202, shaft/bolt 201 which passes through a centralaperture on plate 202 as well as base ears 221. Bearing 200 may alsoinclude circular beating base 203, about which an end of plate 202rotates. Plate 202, base 203 and pin 204 may be integrally made,consisting of one component. Front beam 233 of the transfer bed mayrotate around vertical pin/shaft 204 while resting on bearing base 203,as indicated in FIGS. 24A-D.

Using spherical bearing 200, and referring now to FIG. 24, this drawingshows how the transfer bed is permitted to roll side-to-side in the “Z”Axis. Referring to FIGS. 24A-D, these drawings show how the transfer bedmay be rotated in the vertical “Y” axis.

Referring now to FIGS. 26A-26C, in an alternative embodiment, rearstabilizer legs 340 supporting a rear end of transfer bed 26 may bedesigned to move from retracted (FIG. 26A) to extended (FIG. 26B)positions independently of each other. Hydraulic cylinder 350 may beused to drive pivoting movement of lower portion 341 of leg 340 aboutpivot 342 relative to upper leg 343. Upper leg 343 slides front-to-rearin channels 310 as shown in FIG. 26C.

Still referring to FIGS. 26A-C, providing rear stabilizer legs which canbe moved independently of each other facilitates the ability of thetiltloader to level the deck of the transfer bed over uneven ground.(The spherical bearing adding the third degree of freedom discussedabove also facilitates this ability.)

In another alternative embodiment, an extendable boom may be used inconjunction with transfer bed 26/trolley to allow the tiltloader to loadand unload flat rack platforms, such as flat rack 400 (FIG. 20) usinghook fork 150. Hook fork assembly 150, including hook fork 150 a andhook fork arm 150 b, may be pivoted about rod 151 using hydrauliccylinders 152, whose cylinder rods 153 are rigidly attached to forkhousing 154. Hydraulic drive motor and gear box assembly 156 may bemounted as shown in FIGS. 20 and 22, and base housing 158 may be rigidlyattached to movable carriage 160.

Referring to FIG. 21A, a cross-sectional view shows, in one preferredembodiment, crane trolley wheel loading directions when lifting with thehook boom. The arrows represent the moment arms (arrow pushing down onrear, and arrow pushing up on front). If the boom is extended out withload on it, the boom will want to pivot under this loading. Rollers maybe entrapped inside the frame, to keep the boom from pivoting and comingout of the frame. As shown in FIGS. 20, 20A and 20B, the adjustable boommay be attached to the trolley which travels front-to-rear on thetransfer bed.

Referring to FIGS. 21 and 21B, carriage 160 may include carriage support160 a. Base housing 158 supports and moves carriage support 160A alongthe upper surface of transfer bed 26. Carriage 160 may be chain-drivenand powered by planetary gear box 156 (see FIG. 21B).

Referring to FIGS. 21 and 21C-D, Rapid Attach™ brackets 164 may have asimilar structure and function to brackets 54 of FIG. 6A, and may beattached to pivoting bracket 162 (see also FIG. 20) during containerloading and unloading. (Straps may also or alternatively be attached topivoting bracket 162.)

Referring to FIGS. 27A-F and FIGS. 28-29, these drawings furtherdemonstrate the functionality of one preferred roller system. In apreferred embodiment, rollers may be employed on the top and bottom ofthe deck. Thus, in the embodiment shown in these drawings, rollers 500on the trolley/carriage (one side shown in FIG. 28) are staggered: topon the inside, and bottom on the outside. Referring to FIG. 29, which isa section view from the front of the transfer bed looking to the rearand showing the trolley/carriage roller arrangement, the frame in whichthe rollers travel has rails 501 (top on the outside, and bottom on theinside) in order to guide and entrap the trolley/carriage both top andbottom as it travels front-to-rear in the transfer bed.

Referring to FIG. 20, track 189 may be employed to house hydraulic hosesand electrical cables, and may travel with the bed. One such track, thePowerTrak, is available from Gleason Reel Corp. of Mayville, Wis. (seehttp://www.hubbell-gleason.com/engnrod/PowerTrak/Catalogs/GTrak/25G.pdf,hereby incorporated by reference herein).

In still another alternative embodiment, a retractable roller system maybe provided for transfer bed 26, as shown in FIG. 20, to facilitate theloading and unloading of pallets. When engaged, rollers may extend abovethe deck of transfer bed 26 so that cargo pallets may be rolled on tothe deck. After loading, the rollers may be retracted below the deck,leaving the cargo pallet firmly resting on the deck of the transfer bed.One such roller system, known as the Retract-a-Roll II, is availablefrom Antra Austalia (seehttp://www.ancranz.com/products/ancra-retract-a-roll.php, herebyincorporated by reference herein). Thus, referring to FIGS. 20-20E,notches 163 may be provided in the bed, and retractable rollers 176 mayprotrude through these notches to facilitate roll-loading during pallettransfer, and then retract (FIG. 20D) once the load, such as a pallet orflat rack, rests on the deck. Preferably the rollers are raised with air(when the air is released, the rollers will lower) or, alternatively,the rollers may be raised and lowered through spring-loading or othermeans.

Referring to FIG. 20F, guide arm 312 may be used to assist in thealignment of containers or flat racks during loading. Guide arm 312 maybe positioned either in a stowed position (FIGS. 26A), or rotated 90degrees and extended outward as shown in FIG. 20F.

The above description is not intended to limit the meaning of the wordsused in the following claims that define the invention. Other systems,methods, features, and advantages of the present invention will be, orwill become, apparent to one having ordinary skill in the art uponexamination of the foregoing drawings, written description and claims,and persons of ordinary skill in the art will understand that a varietyof other designs still falling within the scope of the following claimsmay be envisioned and used. For example, RACI 50 may be linked togetherby a brace, bar, rope or any other means, so that the linked pairs maybe secured to two corner fittings 28 b. It is contemplated that these orother future modifications in structure, function or result will existthat are not substantial changes and that all such insubstantial changesin what is claimed are intended to be covered by the claims.

1. A device for moving a tilt frame in relation to a transfer bed, thedevice comprising: a table mounted on a horizontal axis configured to besecured to the tilt frame, the table having a first surface configuredto permit coaxial rotation of an opposing second surface located on thetransfer bed; and a pin extending from the table, the pin configured tobe secured to the opposing second surface of the transfer bed; whereinthe table and the opposing second surface are cooperatively engaged bythe pin to enable the transfer bed to be oriented generally parallel tothe ground during inclination of the tilt frame, and wherein the pinalso allows the transfer bed to roll side-to-side relative to the table.2. The device of claim 1, wherein the pin comprises a spherical bearing.3. The device of claim 1, wherein the table and the opposing secondsurface cooperate to allow the transfer bed to rotate about a verticalaxis coincident with the pin.
 4. The device of claim 1, wherein the pinis threaded and further comprising a threaded fastener configured tomate with the pin for rotatably securing the first and opposing secondsurfaces.
 5. The device of claim 1, further comprising a mounting platesecuring the device to the tilt frame using one or more risers extendingfrom the mounting plate and one or more table supports extending downfrom the table, to provide a vertical separation between the table andthe mounting plate, thereby facilitating clearance between the transferbed and tilt frame.
 6. The device of claim 1, further comprising atrolley movable along the tilt frame, wherein the table is secured tothe trolley.
 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the trolley is configuredto be driven by a chain.
 8. A device for pivotally connecting a transferbed to a tilt frame supported by a vehicle chassis, the devicecomprising: a mounting plate configured to be secured to the tilt frame;and a table having a first meshing surface configured to be secured to asecond meshing surface on the transfer bed, the table having one or moresupports configured to pivotally turn on a horizontal axis between themounting plate and the table permitting the transfer bed to be orientedgenerally parallel to the ground during inclination of the tilt frame;wherein the first and second meshing surfaces engage to allow thetransfer bed to rotate about a vertical axis coincident with the pin. 9.The device of claim 8, further comprising a spherical bearing forsecuring the first meshing surface to the second meshing surface, andwherein the horizontal axis is formed by using one or more risersextending from the mounting plate and the one or more supports toprovide a vertical separation between the table and the mounting plate,thereby facilitating clearance between the transfer bed and tilt frame.10. The device of claim 8, further comprising a trolley moveable alongthe tilt frame, wherein the table is secured to the trolley.
 11. Amethod for moving a tilt frame supported by a vehicle chassis inrelation to a transfer bed pivotally connected to the tilt frame, themethod comprising the steps of: mounting a table for pivotable movementabout a horizontal axis; and securing the table to the tilt frame, thetable having a first surface configured to permit coaxial rotation of anopposing second surface on the transfer bed; wherein the table pivots onthe horizontal axis such that the transfer bed may be oriented generallyparallel to the ground during inclination of the tilt frame; extending apin from the table, the pin configured to be secured to the transfer bedsuch that the first surface opposes the second surface; wherein thetable and the second surface cooperate to allow the transfer bed torotate about a vertical axis coincident with the pin; further comprisingthe step of providing a mounting plate configured for securing thedevice to the tilt frame, wherein the horizontal axis is formed usingone or more risers extending from the mounting plate and one or moretable supports extending down from the table, to provide a verticalseparation between the table and the mounting plate, therebyfacilitating clearance between the transfer bed and tilt frame; whereinthe pin also allows the transfer bed to roll side-to-side relative tothe table.
 12. The method of claim 11, further comprising the step ofproviding a trolley movable along the tilt frame, wherein the table issecured to the trolley.
 13. A loading and unloading device fortransferring cargo between a vehicle having a chassis and a cab and aloading ramp of varying height, the device comprising: a tilt framepivotally engaged to the vehicle chassis, the tilt frame having a firstend near the cab of the vehicle and a second end distal from the cab; atransfer bed having a first end movable along an upper surface of thetilt frame; a table mounted on a horizontal axis configured to besecured to the tilt frame, the table having a first surface configuredto permit coaxial rotation of an opposing second surface located on thetransfer bed; a pin extending from the table, the pin configured to besecured to the opposing second surface of the transfer bed; and anadjustable height carriage configured to support a second end of thetransfer bed; wherein the transfer bed may be leveled at varying heightsby varying at least one of the height of the carriage; and the height ofthe first end of the transfer bed by moving it along the tilt frame, andwherein the table and the opposing second surface cooperate to enablethe transfer bed to be oriented generally parallel to the ground duringinclination of the tilt frame.
 14. A loading and unloading device fortransferring cargo between a vehicle having a chassis and a cab and aloading ramp of varying height, the device comprising: a tilt framepivotally engaged to the vehicle chassis, the tilt frame having a firstend near the cab of the vehicle and a second end distal from the cab; atransfer bed having a first end movable along an upper surface of thetilt frame, the transfer bed having a second end opposed to the firstend; an adjustable height carriage configured to support a second end ofthe transfer bed, the carriage supported by one or more rear stabilizerlegs enabling the transfer bed to be leveled over uneven ground.
 15. Theloading and unloading device of claim 14, comprising two rear stabilizerlegs, each of the legs being independently movable of the other and eachbeing capable of folding and nesting beneath the second end of thetransfer bed.
 16. The loading and unloading device of claim 14, whereinthe tilt frame includes an extendable boom.
 17. The loading andunloading device of claim 16, wherein the extendable boom terminates ina hook fork useable for loading and unloading flat rack platforms. 18.The loading and unloading device of claim 14, wherein the tilt framefurther comprises a retractable roller system to facilitate loading andunloading.
 19. The loading and unloading device of claim 18, whereinwhen engaged the retractable roller system includes rollers extendingabove a deck of the tilt frame to facilitate roll-loading of apparatussuch as cargo pallets on to the deck, and wherein after loading therollers retract from a level of the deck.